Safety candleholder

ABSTRACT

This invention relates to a “candleholder” containing one or more sensing devices that can detect any one or more unsafe conditions and generate a signal to activate an alarm when an unsafe condition is detected.

This invention relates to a safety device for use with a candle, whichdevice gives an alarm when an unsafe condition is detected. Morespecifically, this invention relates to a “candleholder” containing oneor more detectors that can activate an alarm when various unsafeconditions are detected.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

According to the National Candle Association (NCA), retail candle salesin the United States alone are estimated to be 2.3 billion dollars peryear. Since the early 1990s, overall candle sales have grown at a rateof 10 to 15 per cent each year. The NCA also reports that candles areused in seven out of ten households in the United States and thatcandles are no longer used only for the occasional dinner party. Duringthe past 10 years, there has been a huge shift toward people usingscented candles as part of everyday home life and families are lightingcandles in their living rooms, family rooms, dens, kitchens, bathroomsand bedrooms.

Along with the soaring popularity of candles has come a dramaticincrease in the number of fires and resulting damage, injury and deathcaused by candle fires. A report from the National Fire ProtectionAssociation (NFPA) shows that the estimated number of home candle firesjumped from 8,240 in 1980 to 15,040 in 1999. According to this report,in 1999, candle fires caused 1,473 injuries, up from 506 in 1980, and$278 million in direct property damage, up from $38.1 million in 1980.According to the Consumer Product Safety, during the same period deathsin the U.S. from fires caused by candles have increased more than 700per cent.

Candle fires most often start when flames are left unattended or ignitenearby objects. Candle users don't seem to realize that they are dealingwith fire. According to the NFPA, 38% of the home candle fires in 1999occurred when candles were left unattended, abandoned or inadequatelycontrolled. Twenty three percent (23%) of home candle fires started whensome form of combustible material was left or came too close to thecandle.

Unfortunately, there is no standardization in the production of candles.Different manufacturers employ different types and compositions of the“wax” or “paraffin” from which the candles are fabricated. Additionally,in many instances, the composition of the same style candle can varyfrom one batch to another from the same manufacturer. These differencescause the different composition candles to burn at different rates andat different temperatures.

Furthermore, candles are fabricated in different sizes and shapes andthis has an impact on the rate at which candles burn. Thus, for example,two candles of the same height and composition, but of differentdiameters, will “burn down” at different rates. An illustration of thisis the comparison between a candle for a birthday cake, which is about 2inches high and about an eighth inch in diameter, and a votive candle,which is about 2 inches high and about an inch and a half in diameter.The birthday cake candle burns down in a matter of a few minutes, whilethe votive candle burns for several hours.

It has been previously suggested to provide a means for snuffing out acandle after a pre-set amount of time has elapsed. See for example, U.S.Pat. No. 6,572,365 to Byxbe, which describes a device with a timer forsnuffing out a candle after a pre-set amount of time has elapsed. Whilethis may be a step in the right direction and is better than nothing, itstill does not address the problem when an unsafe condition arisesbefore the time that the snuffing mechanism is activated. It clearlydoes not address the situations of the candle holder falling over, thecandle being removed from the candle holder, the candle burning down toan unsafe level, the temperature in the area of the candle becoming toohigh, or the candle igniting combustible matter in the vicinity of thecandle, all at a time prior to the pre-set snuffing time selected by theoperator.

SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

My invention relates to a safety device for use with a candle. Thisdevice comprises a candleholder or means for holding or supporting acandle. Associated with the candleholder is another means or severaldifferent means for detecting an unsafe condition or several unsafeconditions. The device of my invention also includes an alarm means,which is responsive to the means for detecting an unsafe condition. Thealarm is activated when an unsafe condition is detected.

The candleholder of my invention can be any means or device that iscapable supporting a candle and can include any of the well-knowndevices currently in use. Examples of such devices include spikes (uponwhich a candle can be impaled), cups or sockets (into which the base ofa candle can be inserted), clamps (for gripping a candle), containers(in which the entire candle is located), or flat plates (upon which thebase of a candle rests).

My invention further relates to a modular device which comprises meansfor detecting an unsafe condition, an alarm means and a means foractivating the alarm means when an unsafe condition is detected. Thismodular device is adapted to be included in a candleholder when it isbeing fabricated or added to a previously fabricated candleholder,thereby providing such candleholders with the ability to detect unsafeconditions and to sound an alarm when a unsafe condition is detected.

Some of the unsafe conditions that could exist in connection with theburning of a candle include the burning of the candle to an unsafely lowlevel, the candle and/or candle holder tipping over, the removal of thecandle from the candleholder, too high a temperature in the area of thecandle or candleholder, or a foreign object or material in proximity tothe candle or candleholder.

Generally, the means for detecting unsafe conditions include devicessuch as a means for sensing temperature, means for sensing weight, meansfor sensing weight change, means for sensing light, means for sensingmotion and means for sensing proximity, such as a foreign objectintruding into the space about a candleholder.

The means for detecting the unsafe condition of the candle burning toolow can include a means for detecting or sensing the temperature in thearea proximate the base of the candle, a means for detecting the weightof the candle or the rate of change of the weight of the candle, a meansfor detecting the level of the flame of a burning candle. or thedistance of the candle flame from the candleholder.

The means for detecting the unsafe condition of the candle orcandleholder tipping over can include a means for detecting thetemperature proximate the candleholder, a means for detecting weight ofthe candle and/or the candleholder, a means for detecting motion in thevicinity of the candleholder, or a means for detecting the motion of thecandle or candleholder.

The means for detecting the unsafe condition of a foreign objectmaterial in proximity to the candle or candleholder can be means fordetecting ignition of foreign material or means for detecting the motionof a foreign body or material in proximity to the candle orcandleholder.

A variety of the various means mentioned above are well known to the artand are readily available in the industry. Thus, for example,temperature sensing devices useful in my invention include thermistors(thermo resistive devices), thermocouples, pyroelectric devices(infrared thermal detectors), bimetallic cut out switches, andthermopile sensors.

Similarly, a selection of means for detecting weight or change of weightis also available commercially and include such devices as straingauges, piezoresistive pressure sensors, mechanical switches, and springactuated switches.

There are also available many motion detecting devices. Some of the morereadily available devices of this nature include photo electric motionsensors (LED light beams), capacitive proximity sensors, photo voltaicsensors, ultra sonic proximity sensors, and several inductive devices,

The devices for the detection of flames or the location or position offlames are also known in the art and include, for example, photoresistive flame detectors, infra red pyro electric detectors and variousheat sensing and detecting devices mentioned above.

It will be understood that many of the means and devices mentioned abovecan be used to detect more than one unsafe condition. Additionally, manyof the devices can be calibrated so as to detect different unsafeconditions. Thus, for example, a temperature or heat sensing device,such as a thermocouple, can be used to detect either or both of theunsafe conditions of the candle burning too low and/or a candle tippingover.

Thus, for example, a variety of specific means exist for determining ifa candle has burned too low or too hot. Some of the devices availablefor the detection of temperature at or near the base of the candleinclude a thermistor. In practice one or more thermistors, such as theAccu-curve brand available from RTI Electronics, can be positionedproximate the bottom of a candle. The thermistor can be attachedmechanically or with and adhesive (e.g., epoxy) to the candle holder, orit can be incorporated into the candle holder, such as by molding thethermistor into the candle holder. If the candleholder is a flat plate,the thermistor can be positioned on either the upper or under surface ofthe candleholder. When a predetermined temperature is sensed or detectedby the thermistor, a signal is transmitted by the thermistor to thealarm means, such as by an electronic circuit.

Another means for sensing or detecting temperature is a thermocouple anddevices of this type can be obtained commercially from NewportElectronics or Watlow. In accordance with my invention, one or morethermocouples can be positioned on or in a candleholder so as to detectthe temperature near the base of a candle. When a predeterminedtemperature is sensed or detected proximate the base of a candle, asignal is generated to activate the alarm means.

Alternatively, a bi-metal switch, such as those available from Canthermcan be positioned on or in the candle holder so as to sense or detectthe temperature at the base of a candle so that when a predeterminedtemperature is sensed the bi-metal switch will change position and causethe activation of the alarm means.

In another embodiment of my invention, a thermopile sensor, such as thethin film type available from Dexter Research Center, Inc., can be usedto sense or detect the temperature at or near the base of a candle. Thethermopile sensor can be located on or in the candleholder proximate thebase of a candle. When a predetermined temperature is sensed ordetected, the out put voltage of the thermopile will activate the alarmmeans and sound an alarm.

It is also possible to employ a thermal detector, such as an IRpyroelectric detector available from InfraTec GmbH. The thermal detectorcan also be positioned on or in the candleholder so as to detect orsense the temperature near the base of the candle. When the temperaturesensed or detected reaches or exceed a predetermined temperature, theoutput signal from the thermal detector will cause the activation of thealarm means.

In addition to temperature sensing devices, the unsafe condition of acandle burning too low can also determined by use of means for detectingthe weight or the rate of weight change of a candle. Thus, for example,a strain gauge, such as a thin film strain gauge available from AdvancedCustom Sensors, Inc., can be attached to the candle holder of thisinvention in such a manner as to sense the weight of a candle and/or therate of change in the weight of a burning candle as it burns down. Whenthe weight of the candle decreases or the rate of change in the weightof the candle increases to a predetermined level, which is indicative ofthe candle having burned to a low level, a signal from the strain gaugetriggers the alarm means. While this means for detecting the weight orrate of change of weight of a candle is suitable for use with any of thevarious types of candle holders, including, for example, a spike, aclamp or a cup, it is particularly well suited for use in connectionwith a candle supporting surface, such as a flat plate.

Alternatively, a force sensor, such as an FS series Micro Switchavailable from Honeywell, can be mounted on the candle holder in amanner to sense the weight of a candle and/or the rate of change inweight of a burning candle. As a candle burns to the bottom, the weightof the candle diminishes or the rate of change in the weight loss of thecandle INCREASES—? to a predetermined level, which is indicative of thecandle having burned to a low level. At this point a signal from theforce sensor activates the alarm means. As mentioned above, while thismeans for detecting the weight or rate of change of weight of a candleis suitable for use with any of the various types of candle holders,including, for example, spikes, clamps or cups, it is particularly wellsuited for use in connection with a candle supporting surface, such as aflat, horizontal plate.

Another type of means for detecting the unsafe condition of a candlehaving burned too low is a light detection means, including means forsensing when the flame of the candle approaches too closely to thecandle holder. Yet another type device can be an LED beam that isconnected or completed when the candle burns below a predeterminedlevel.

A different unsafe condition that can occur is when a candle is knockedover or is unintentionally removed from the candleholder. This situationcan occur when the candle is knocked over by an object impacting thecandle or the candle is removed from the candle holder, such as by achild.

Suitable means for detection of this or these unsafe conditions includedevices for detecting a weight change. An example of such device is asubminiature on-off switch, such as a ZX series switch from HoneywellMicro Switch division, which can be mounted in such a manner that when acandle is in position on/in the candle holder, of whatever type, theswitch remains closed, but if/when the candle is tipped over or removedfrom the candleholder, the switch changes to the open position and thealarm means is activated. Thus, it will be seen that a mere tipping overof the candle will reduce the weight/pressure on the switch to cause theswitch to change position. Similarly, the removal of the candle from thecandleholder will also cause the switch to change position. The changein position of the switch results in activation of the alarm means.Devices of this nature can be used in connection with the various typesof candle holders, such as spikes, clamps, cups or flat plates. It willbe understood that a device of this type is also capable of detectingwhen a candle has burned to a predetermined low level.

Similarly, a force measuring device, such as a piezoresistive forcesensor in the FS series available from Honeywell Micro Switch division,can be mounted in/on the candleholder in such a manner to sense theweight of a candle when positioned in/on the candleholder. In the eventof the sudden change in the weight sensed by the device, such as, forexample, by the candle tipping over or being removed from thecandleholder, the sensing means will trigger the alarm means.

Another device that can be employed to detect a candle tipping over or acandle being removed from the candleholder is a strain gauge, such asthose available from Omega, which can be attached to the candleholder todetect the presence of a candle. In the event the candle is tipped overor removed from the candleholder, the resulting change in the resistanceof the strain gauge can be employed in an electric/electronic circuit totrigger the alarm means.

An alternative can be a combination strain gauge and temperature sensor,such as the Kyowa brand available from Soltec. The combination devicecan be installed in./on the candleholder so that the strain gauge candetect the tipping or removal of the candle and the detection of anabnormal temperature proximate the base of the candle holder by thetemperature sensor is indicative of the candle tipping over. Either orboth sensed phenomenon will activate the alarm means.

A heat flux sensor located proximate the base of the candleholder willreact to the flame of a candle that has been tipped over and activatethe alarm means.

Motion detecting devices can also be used as the means for detecting anunsafe condition in connection with a candle being unintentionallyremoved from the candleholder or the candle being knocked over. Thus,for example, an LED light beam, i.e., a visible light emitting andreceiving device, such as the Sideview TLP series available from Vishay,can be set in a through beam manner to shine a light beam parallel tothe candle supporting surface. When the candle is in proper positionin/on the candleholder, the beam is broken. In the event the candle isremoved from the candleholder or is tipped over, the beam will becompleted and the alarm means will be triggered.

Another device that can be employed is a photoelectric cell or a photodiode, such as the typ available from Clairex Technologies, Inc. Thistype device can be located on the candleholder in such a manner that thevisible light is blocked from the sensor when the candle is in properposition. If the candle is removed from the candleholder or is tippedfrom its proper position, the photodiode will sense the light and willactivate the alarm means.

It is also possible to employ an ultra sonic sensor of the typeavailable from Baumer Electric and positioned in/on the candleholder sothat the sensor will recognize the presence of a candle and in the eventthat the candle is removed or is tipped from its proper position, thesensor will change its current output and trigger the alarm means.

Alternatively, a capacitive proximity sensor, such as the CFDM modelavailable from Baumer Electric can be mounted relative to thecandleholder so as to focus on the candle base while it is in the properposition. If the candle is removed or tipped out of proper position, thesensor output will change and the alarm means will be triggered.

In the situation wherein the unsafe condition results from thecandleholder being removed from its proper resting place, such as on atable or other horizontal/flat surface. Typical of this situation ishaving the candleholder knocked over or removed from its resting placesuch s by the action of a passerby, and animal or a child.

Illustrative of such a means is a subminiature on-off switch, forexample the D2F series snap action switches from Omron. This type ofswitch can be mounted to the base of a candleholder in such a mannerthat when the candleholder is resting on a table or other flat,horizontal surface, the switch is closed. If the candleholder is removedfrom the resting surface, the switch position changes and the electroniccircuit activates the alarm mechanism,

Another such means is a peizoresistive force sensor, for example an LPMMicro Force Sensor device from Cooper Instruments. This kind of deviceis mounted on a candleholder housing so as to sense the weight of thecandle holder as it rests on a table or other support. If thecandleholder is knocked over, the change in signal from the force sensorwill cause the electronic circuit to trigger the alarm means.

A strain gauge, such as one from the LQB series available from CooperInstruments can be attached to the candleholder housing so as to measurethe load while the candleholder is resting on a table or othersupporting surface. In the event the candleholder is removed, a changein resistance will cause the electronic/integrated circuit to triggerthe alarm.

Another device that can be employed is a membrane touch switch of thetype available from Conductive Technologies, Inc. This type of devicecan be positioned in the candleholder housing so that an actuating armcan momentarily engage its touch switch if the candleholder is knockedoff the table or supporting surface, thereby causing theelectronic/integrated circuit to trigger the alarm.

Another means for detecting if a candleholder has been tipped over orremoved from its proper resting place is a motion sensing means. Suchmeans include devices such as a tilt sensor, particularly the wide angleseries available from The Fredericks Company. This type of device can bemounted in the candleholder and, if the candleholder is knocked over orheld out of level, the tilt sensor will send a signal to theelectronic/integrated circuit to activate the alarm means. A similardevice that acts in the same manner is an inclinometer, such as one fromthe SCA series available from VTI Technologies.

A visible light sensing device, such as a light sensitive photo diodefrom the Si series available from Hamamatsu Corporation, can be mountedon the underside of a candleholder so as not to receive any visiblelight. If the candle older is knocked over or removed from itssupporting surface, the light sensing means will be exposed to roomlight and the output signal will change causing theelectronic/integrated circuit to activate the alarm.

An accelerometer or inertia switch, such as those available from DytranInstruments, Inc., can be mounted on the candleholder and if thecandleholder is knocked over or removed from its supporting surface, thechange in output signal will cause the integrated circuit to activatethe alarm.

Another motion sensing device that can be employed is an electroniccompass, such as a member of the HMR series available from Honeywell,can be mounted on a candleholder to sense any movement of thecandleholder. The resulting output signal will cause the electroniccircuit to activate the alarm.

Other unsafe conditions that can occur include problems arising in thearea above the candle or candleholder and include such things as foreignobjects intruding into the space above the candleholder or candle oritems catching fire. Means for detecting the intrusion of objects abovethe candleholder include many of the motion sensing devices discussedpreviously, but in the present situation they operate in a mannersomewhat opposite to mode of operation described previously. Thus, forexample, a photo electric device such as a photo diode can be places inthe candle holder such that it is exposed to available light. If aforeign object intrudes into the area above the candleholder the amountof light received by the photo diode is reduced and the variation isoutput to the electronic circuit causes the circuit to send a signal toactivate the alarm. Similarly, ultra sonic sensors and capacitive typeproximity sensors will react to the presence of foreign objects in theirvicinity. Other well-known motion sensing devices can also be employed.

In connection with the unsafe condition of ignition of material aroundor above the candleholder, temperature sensing devices can be employedsimilar to those described previously. Further, temperature sensingmeans including an infrared pyroelectric detector, such as one selectedfrom the LIE series available from Infra Tec, and a thermopile detector,such as one selected from the ZTP series manufactured by GE, can beused. Devices of this nature sense the ambient conditions near andaround a candle held in a candleholder of this invention and ignition ofa foreign object will change the output from the devices causing theelectronic/integrated circuit to activate the alarm.

DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an exploded view of an embodiment of this invention suitablefor holding a candle on a flat plate.

FIG. 2 shows an embodiment of this invention wherein the candleholder ifof the “spike” type.

FIG. 3 shows another embodiment of this invention wherein thecandleholder is of the cup or container type.

FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment of this invention wherein thecandleholder is of the clamp type.

FIG. 5 shows an embodiment of this invention suitable for use withmultiple candles.

FIG. 6 shows another embodiment of this invention wherein all of thesensing, computing, and alarm means are contained in a single module forinclusion in a candleholder.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows an exploded view of one embodiment of a device 10 inaccordance with this invention. As shown in the drawing, there is a baseplate 12 and a top plate 14. Disposed between the base plate 12 and thetop plate 14 are three other components of the device 10, specifically,a candle holding or support plate 16, a battery 18, and a sensing deviceplate 20.

On sensing device plate 20 are mounted several sensing devices. As shownin FIG. 1, there are a temperature sensing device 22, a weight sensingdevice 24, a weight change sensing device 26, an audible alarm mechanism28, and an electronic/integrated control circuit 30, all. mounted onplate 20. Also connected to plate 20 are a light sensing device 32, amotion sensing device 34, and a proximity sensing device 36. Plate 20further has associated with it a visual alarm mechanism 38, an on-offswitch 40 and a battery connector 42 for use with battery 18.

Sensing devices 22, 24, and 26 are designed to come in contact with thesurface of plate 16, when the device 10 of this invention is assembled,and to detect, respectively, the temperature at or proximate to plate16, the weight of any load on plate 16 (such as the weight of a candle),and the rate of change in weight of any load on plate 16 (such as therate of weight change of a burning candle supported on plate 16).

The sensing and alarm devices 22, 24, 26, 28, 32, 34, 36, and 38 as wellas on-off switch 40 and battery connector 42 described above are allelectrically connected to electronic/integrated circuit 30 by means of aseries of connecting wires, all designated by reference numeral 44. Eachof these connecting wires is capable of conducting electrical powerand/or signals to circuit member 30, which operates to activate thealarm means 28 and 38 in the event a phenomenon determined to be unsafeis detected by any one or more of the sensing devices 22, 24, 26, 32, 34and 36.

As also shown in FIG. 1, top plate 14 is provided with a series ofapertures there through and identified by reference numbers 46, 48, and50. Aperture 46 is adapted to receive light sensing device 32 in amanner that sensing device 32 is capable of detecting the intensity oflight in the area above candle holding or support plate 16 and top plate14. Aperture 48 is adapted to receive motion sensing device 34 in amanner that sensing device 34 is capable of detecting motion of a bodyin the area above candle holding or support plate 16 and top plate 14.Similarly, aperture 50 is adapted to receive proximity sensing device 36in a manner that sensing device 36 is capable of detecting the presenceof a foreign body in the area above candle holding or support plate 16and top plate 14.

It will be noted that base plate 12 has a notched opening 52 in itsouter rim and an aperture 54 there through. The notched opening 52 isadapted to receive on-off switch 40 in a manner that switch 40 isoperable from the exterior of the device of the invention 10 after thedevice 10 is assembled. Aperture 54 is adapted to receive visual alarmmechanism 38 in a manner that the visual alarm 38 is capable of beingseen from the exterior of the device 10 after it is assembled.

In assembling the device of this invention 10, battery 18 is connectedto battery connector 42 to provide power to the system and the ears 56on sensing device plate 20 are received into the slots 58 in base plate12 to provide support and stability. Candle holding plate 16 is placedon top of sensing device plate 20 and, if desired or required, incontact with sensing devices 22, 24, and 26. On-off switch 40 ispositioned in notched opening 52 in base plate 12 and visual alarm means38 is inserted through aperture 54 in base plate 12. Similarly, topplate 14 is placed over plates 16 and 20 so that on-off switch 40 isreceived in notched opening 60 in top plate 14 and sensing devices 32,34 and 36 are disposed through apertures 46, 48 and 50, respectively.Plates 12 and 14 are fastened together, by means not shown, therebysecuring in an integral structure, the device 10 of this invention.

In operation, one or more candles can be placed on the candleholding/support plate 16 the assembled device 10. In the event an unsafecondition occurs one or more of the sensing devices will detect thephenomenon(s) associated with such unsafe condition. Thus, for example,if a candle placed on plate 16 is removed from plate 16, then weightsensing device 24 will detect the removal of that load from plate 16 andsend an appropriate signal to control circuit 30 which in turn willactivate either or both of audible alarm mechanism 28 and visual alarmmechanism 38. Similarly, upon removal of the load from plate 16, weightchange sensing device 26 will detect the abnormally rapid change inweight and send an appropriate signal to control circuit 30 which willactivate either or both of the audible alarm 28 and the visual alarm 38.

In the unsafe condition of a candle falling over, not only will weightsensing device 24 and weight change sensing device 26 detect thephenomenon, but motion sensing device 34 will also detect the motion ofthe candle falling over. Additionally, if the candle falls over ontoplate 16, then temperature sensing device 22 can also detect the hightemperature of the flame of the candle on the plate. Thus, all of weightsensing device 24, weight change sensing device 26, motion sensingdevice 34 and temperature sensing device 22 will send signals to controlcircuit 30 to activate the alarm mechanisms 28 and 38.

In the unsafe condition of the candle burning too low, the temperaturesensing device 22 will detect the temperature proximate plate 16exceeding a predetermined maximum safe temperature. In this situationweight sensing device 24 can also detect the very low weight of thealmost consumed candle, while weight change sensing device 26 can detectthe change in the rate of weight change in a candle as the candle isalmost totally consumed. As the candle burns low, light sensing device32 can also detect the low elevation of the candle flame. Thus, any oneor more of sensing devices 22, 24, 26, and 32 can send an appropriatesignal to control circuit 30 which in turn will activate either or bothof the alarm mechanisms 28 and 38.

In the unsafe condition of some object, especially a flammable object,intruding into the space above the plate 16 or a candle supported onplate 16, several of the sensing devices can detect the unsafecondition. For example, the motion sensing device 34 can detect thepresence of a foreign object, such as a child, an animal or a carelessperson, moving into the vicinity of the device of this invention 10. Ifthe device of this invention 10 has been moved from an original safeposition, for example by a child, and animal or a careless adult, theproximity sensing device 36 can detect the newly created unsafecondition and send an appropriate signal to control circuit 30 toactivate alarms 28 and 38.

Another unsafe condition that could occur is for the entire device ofthis invention 10 to be tipped over. In such situation, all of thetemperature sensing device 22, the weight sensing device 24, the weightchange sensing device 26 and the motion sensing device 34 would detectabnormal conditions, such as predetermined parameters, and transmitappropriate signals to control circuit 30 to activate alarms 28 and 38.

Although the embodiment of this invention illustrated in FIG. 1, isshown using a standard alkali battery as the source of power, it will beunderstood that other power sources can be employed with this invention.For example, the apparatus of this invention can be powered usingstandard household current, a rechargeable battery (Nickel-Cadmium),thin film batteries, and radiation driven electrical sources, such asphoto voltaic cells (solar cells).

It will also be understood that it is not necessary to use all of thesensing devices described above in every embodiment of devices of thisinvention, since some of the sensing devices are duplicative in results.It is also possible that a user may not believe it necessary to use allof the sensing devices.

In FIG. 2 there is shown a different embodiment of the device of thisinvention where the candleholder is of the “spike” type. Thus, in thisfigure there is shown a support rod 210 on which is mounted a drip tray212 and from which projects a spike 214. In this type of “candle holder”the center of the bottom of a candle 216 (shown in dotted lines) isimpaled on the spike 214 and the bottom of the candle 216 rests on driptray 212.

Shown imbedded in tray 212 are a light sensing device 218, a weightsensing device 220, a weight change sensing device 222, a temperaturesensing device 224, a motion sensing device 226 and an audible alarmmechanism 228. Imbedded in the support rod 210 is electronic/integratedcircuit 230. Also shown in FIG. 2 is electrical line 232 coming from apower supply, not shown, such as a standard household source of electricpower.

Similar to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, out put signals fromeach of the sensing devices 218, 220, 222, 224, and 226, if all areused, are routed to electronic/integrated circuit 230 which in turnsends signal to audible alarm mechanism 228 when any one of the suchsensing devices detects a parameter other than a predetermined value,thus indicating an unsafe condition.

FIG. 3 illustrates another embodiment of this invention. In this figurethere is shown supporting base 310 on which is mounted candle container312 having an opening 314 for receiving a candle 316 (shown in dottedlines). Imbedded in container 312 are a light sensing device 318, aweight sensing device 320, a weight change sensing device 322,temperature sensing device 324, and motion sensing device 326. Alsoimbedded in container 312 is an audible alarm mechanism 328. Anelectronic/integrated circuit 330 is also shown imbedded in supportingbase 310. Electrical lead 332 providing power for the operation of thedevice is shown connecting the device to a power supply, not shown.

As in the preceding embodiments of this invention illustrated in FIGS. 1and 2, the sensing devices 318, 320, 322, 324, and 326 (if all areused); the alarm mechanism 328; and the electronic/integrated circuit330 are interconnected by appropriate wiring means so that the alarmmechanism 328 is activated when any unsafe condition is detected by anyone or more of the sensing devices 318, 320, 322, 324, or 326 detects aparameter other than a predetermined norm. Thus, for example, if acandle burns too low or is tipped over, the alarm is activated.Similarly, if the entire device is tipped over or a foreign body come toclose to a candle, the alarm is also activated.

FIG. 4 shows an embodiment of this invention wherein a candle is graspedby a clamp. In this figure can be seen a support arm 410 to which isattached a clamp mechanism 412 and support base 414 designed to supportand clamp a candle 416 (shown in dotted lines). Imbedded in clamp 412are a light sensing device 418, proximity sensing device 422,temperature sending device 424, and motion sensing device 426. There isalso a weight sensing device 420 imbedded in support base 414. An alarmmechanism 428 is imbedded in clamp 412 and an electronic/integratedcircuit 430 is imbedded in support arm 410. Also shown is an electricalline 432 connected to a power supply, not shown.

In the embodiment of FIG. 4, as in the previously described embodimentsof this invention illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 3, the sensing devices418, 420, 422, 424, and 426, if all are used, are interconnected withelectronic/integrated circuit 430, alarm mechanism 428 and to a powersupply, not shown, via electrical line 432. In operation, when an unsafecondition is detected by any of the sensing devices 418, 420, 422, 424,or 426 by registering a parameter other than a predetermined value, thealarm mechanism 428 is activated. Thus unsafe conditions, such as, thecandle burning too low, tipping over or being removed from the clamp 412can be detected and alarm mechanism 428 is activated.

FIG. 5 illustrates another embodiment of this invention, which isdesigned to accommodate multiple candles and is indicated by referencenumber 510. This embodiment includes a support platform 512. FIG. 5illustrates an embodiment capable of supporting four candles 516.Because of this embodiment being larger that those illustrated in FIGS.1 through 4, this embodiment shows multiple light sensing devices 518located at a plurality of locations on support platform 512. The entireupper surface of platform 512 is covered with a thin film weight sensingdevice 520 which is capable of detecting changes in weight on the film,such as the candles 516 burning too low, tipping over or being removedfrom weight sensing device 520. Also located at multiple locations alongthe top surface of platform 512 are a plurality temperature sensingdevices 524. Further there are multiple motion sensing devices 526located at a plurality of locations along the top surface of platform512. Sensing devices 518 and 526 extend above weight sensing device 520.Associated with platform 512 is an audible alarm mechanism 528.Positioned within platform 512 is an electronic/integrated circuit 530designed to process signals from the sensing devices 518, 520, 524, and526. There is also illustrated an electrical line 532 connecting theplatform 512 to a power supply, not shown. As mentioned in connectionwith the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 4, the sensingdevices 518, 520, 524, and 526, the electronic/integrated circuit 530and the alarm mechanism 528 are all interconnected with appropriatewiring.

In operation, the phenomena detected by the sensing devices 518, 520,524, and 526, if all are used, generate signals that are transmitted toelectronic/integrated circuit 530 where they are processed and if thereis a variation from any predetermined norm, a signal is sent fromelectronic/integrated circuit 530 to alarm mechanism 528 to activate itand sound an audible alarm indicating that an unsafe condition exists.Thus, if the temperature detected by temperature sensing device 524 istoo high thus indicating that a candle 516 has burned too low or that acandle 516 has tipped over, the alarm will be sounded. On the otherhand, if one of the motion sensing devices 526 detects movementproximate support platform 512 indicative of an object, animal or personcoming too close to the platform 512, a signal will be sent toelectronic/integrated circuit 530, which in turn will activate alarm528. In another instance of unsafe conditions, if weight sensing device520 detects a reduction in weight which can be indicative of a candle516 burning too low, tipping over or being removed from platform 512, asignal will be sent to electronic/integrated circuit 530 where it willbe determined if a predetermined norm has been exceeded. In such event,a signal will be sent from electronic/integrated circuit 530 to activatealarm 528. If a light sensing device 518 detects an amount of light thatelectronic/integrated circuit 530 determines exceeds a predeterminedlevel, a signal will be sent to activate alarm mechanism 528. This canoccur if a candle 516 burns too low, is tipped over or a foreign objectabove platform 512 catches fire.

In FIG. 6 there is illustrated a module in accordance with thisinvention. Within module housing 610 there are disposed a weight sensingdevice 612, a weight change sensing device 614, and a temperaturesensing device 616. Also connected to modular housing 610 are a lightsensing device 618, a motion sensing device 620, and a proximity sensingdevice 622. At an exterior surface of module 610 is located an alarmmechanism 624. Positioned within module housing 610 is anelectronic/integrated circuit 626. As can also be seen in FIG. 6, thesensing devices 612, 614, 616, 618, 620 and 622 are all interconnectedwith electronic/integrated circuit 626 and alarm mechanism 624 by meansof connecting wires 628. Electrical power to the module is supplied bymeans of electrical line 630, which leads to a power supply, not shown.The power supply can be a normal household electrical power supply, abattery, a photo-voltaic cell, or a fuel cell.

In operation, the module housing 610 can be installed in any of the manytypes of commercially available candleholders readily available on themarket. Thus, for example, a module 610 of this invention can beincorporated into the body of a candleholder during fabrication of thecandle holder so as to become an integral part of such candle holder.Alternatively, a module 610 of this invention can be added to apreviously fabricated candleholder. In any event, the module 610, whichincludes all of the sensing means, calculating or computing means, andalarm means necessary to detect operating parameters, to determine ifpredetermined unsafe operating conditions prevail and alarm means toalert the user to the existence of an unsafe condition in order thatcorrective or remedial action can be taken.

1. A device for use with a candle which comprises (1) means for holdinga candle, (2) means associated with the candle holding means fordetecting an unsafe condition, (3) an alarm means (4) means responsiveto the means for detecting an unsafe condition for activating the alarmmeans when the means for detecting an unsafe condition detects an unsafecondition, and (5) power supply means.
 2. The device of claim 1 whereinthe means for holding a candle comprises a base device selected from thegroup consisting of a plate, a cup, a spike, and a clamp.
 3. The deviceof claim 1 wherein the means for detecting an unsafe condition isselected from the group consisting of: (a) a temperature sensing means:(b) a weight sensing means; (c) a weight change sensing means; (d) alight sensing means; (e) a motion sensing means; and (f) a proximitysensing means.
 4. The device of claim 1 wherein the power supply meansis selected from: (a) a household electrical source; (b) a battery; (c)a solar power source; and (d) a fuel cell.
 5. The device of claim 1wherein the means for activating the alarm means is selected from thegroup consisting of an electronic circuit and an integrated circuit. 6.The device of claim 1 wherein the alarm means is selected from the groupconsisting of audible and visible means.
 7. The device of claim 3wherein the unsafe condition is the candle burning too low and thedetection means is selected from the group consisting of: (a) atemperature sensing means; (b) a weight sensing means; (c) a weightchange sensing means; and (d) a light sensing means.
 8. The device ofclaim 3 wherein the unsafe condition is the candle or candleholder beingdisoriented and the detection means is selected from the groupconsisting of: (a) a temperature sensing means; (b) a weight sensingmeans; (c) a weight change sensing means: and (e) a motion sensingmeans.
 9. The device of claim 3 wherein the unsafe condition is a hazardabove the candleholder and the detection means is selected from thegroup consisting of: (a) a temperature sensing means; (e) a motionsensing means; and (f) a proximity sensing means.
 10. A modular sensingdevice for use with a candleholder which comprises; (2) means fordetecting an unsafe condition, (3) an alarm means (4) a means responsiveto the means for detecting an unsafe condition for activating the alarmmeans when the means for detecting an unsafe condition detects an unsafecondition, and (5) a power supply means.
 11. The modular device of claim10 wherein the means for detecting an unsafe condition is selected fromthe group consisting of: (a) a temperature sensing means: (b) a weightsensing means; (c) a weight change sensing means; (d) a light sensingmeans; (e) a motion sensing means; and (f) a proximity sensing means.12. The modular device of claim 10 wherein the power supply means isselected from the group consisting of: (a) a household electricalsource; (b) a battery; (c) a solar power source; and (d) a fuel cell.13. The modular device of claim 10 wherein the means for activating thealarm means is selected from the group consisting of an electroniccircuit and an integrated circuit.
 14. The modular device of claim10-wherein the alarm means is selected from the group consisting ofaudible and visible means.
 15. The modular device of claim 10 whereinthe unsafe condition is a candle burning too low and the detection meansis selected from the group consisting of: (a) a temperature sensingmeans; (b) a weight sensing means; (c) a weight change sensing means;and (d) a light sensing means.
 16. The modular device of claim 10wherein the unsafe condition is a candle or candleholder beingdisoriented and the detection means is selected from the groupconsisting of: (a) a temperature sensing means; (b) a weight sensingmeans; (c) a weight change sensing means: and (e) a motion sensingmeans.
 17. The device of claim 10 wherein the unsafe condition is ahazard above the candleholder and the detection means is selected fromthe group consisting of: (a) a temperature sensing means; (e) a motionsensing means; and (f) a proximity sensing means.
 18. The device ofclaim 1 wherein the candle holding means is designed to hold a pluralityof candles and there is and a plurality of means for detecting an unsafecondition.
 19. The device of claim 18 wherein the candle holding meansis a flat plate and the means for detecting an unsafe condition areimbedded in the candle holding means.